As long as the maintenance items specified in the vehicle owner’s manual are performed on schedule, the work can be done at any licensed auto repair shop. Always be sure to keep accurate records and receipts to back you up in case of a warranty dispute on a future repair.

Vehicle and Maintenance FAQ's

I have a new car; do I need to take it to a dealership for maintenance in order to keep my warranty valid?

No! Forget all about that old myth. As long as you follow the specifications given by the manufacturer (which can be found in your handy owner’s manual), your warranty is valid. At Kootenay Motors, we always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. We’ll make sure your warranty remains valid and your car remains happy - for many miles to come!

What kinds of cars do you repair? Does car make or model matter?

Kootenay Motors is a complete automotive repair center that provides Red Seal certified service for all foreign and domestic cars and trucks. This includes service to all aspects of the car such as engine, emission system, brakes, tires, etc. In addition to servicing privately owned vehicles, we also welcome commercial and fleet vehicles.

Yes. Only winter tires are designed to excel in the colder temperatures, slush, snow and ice. Recent advancements in electronic driver aids, such as ABS and traction control don't provide more traction. They only help prevent drivers from over braking or overpowering the available traction of their tires. The only thing the driver can do to increase traction, to actually get more grip and control, is to install winter tires.

How often do I need an oil change?

While it's true some vehicles need an oil change every five thousand clicks, others only require this service every 10 or even 15 thousand kilometers. It's best to refer to your owners manual for recommended oil changes. Kootenay Motors follows the manufacturer's specifications to make sure your car gets exactly what it needs to run happily ever after (or at least for a very long time). Even if your vehicle requires a longer interval between oil changes you may still need to change out, Air filters, Fuel filters and check fluid levels. A good rule of thumb is to get your vehicle serviced twice yearly.

What does it mean if my "check engine" or "service engine soon" light comes on?

There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicle's engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the "check engine" light is illuminated. Although your car may seem to run fine, it is important to have the issue addressed to prevent long-term problems.

When should I replace my car's fuel filter?

To help ensure dependable, trouble-free performance, replace your car's fuel filter approximately every 48,000 km's or as recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual.

Is it really necessary to replace my timing belt at the recommended interval?

Yes! The failure of a timing belt in many cars can result in major engine damage. The cost of repairing an engine with a broken timing belt is much greater than the cost of a timing belt replacement.